Wolf River Greenway
A sprawling greenway offering miles of scenic trails for walking, running, and biking, with abundant wildlife and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Wolf River Greenway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling greenway offering miles of scenic trails for walking, running, and biking, with abundant wildlife and natural beauty.
"A peaceful escape with diverse wildlife and beautiful trails, perfect for outdoor adventures."
Check Flood Status First
Trails can flood after rain. Always check conditions before heading out to avoid disappointment. :warning:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking, running, and biking. Paved and natural trails offer varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wolf River Greenway Arboretum
Between Walnut Grove Rd. and Shady Grove Rd.
A mile-long paved loop showcasing 37 native Mid-South tree species. Perfect for nature lovers and educational strolls.
Shelby Farms Park Connection
Shelby Farms Park
Access to a 'hidden beach' sandbar and a bridge connecting to Shelby Farms Greenline and Lucius Burch State Natural Area.
Wildlife Spotting
Various sections
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer, sandhill cranes, and even elusive bobcats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
+2Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Flood Status First
Trails can flood after rain. Always check conditions before heading out to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking, running, and biking. Paved and natural trails offer varied terrain. +1 :athletic_shoe:
Connect to Shelby Farms
The bridge links to Shelby Farms Park, expanding your outdoor adventure options.
Wildlife Encounters
Spot deer, birds, and even bobcats. Early mornings are best for sightings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Flood Status First
Trails can flood after rain. Always check conditions before heading out to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking, running, and biking. Paved and natural trails offer varied terrain. +1 :athletic_shoe:
Connect to Shelby Farms
The bridge links to Shelby Farms Park, expanding your outdoor adventure options.
Wildlife Encounters
Spot deer, birds, and even bobcats. Early mornings are best for sightings.
Explore the Arboretum
Discover 37 native tree species on a scenic paved loop. Great for learning and nature walks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Wolf River Greenway for its extensive natural beauty, offering peaceful trails for walking, running, and cycling. The connection to Shelby Farms and the diverse wildlife sightings are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, occasional flooding can impact trail accessibility, requiring visitors to check conditions beforehand.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points are numerous along its length. Popular entry points include the parking lot at Wolf River and Farmington Boulevards, and near Fire Station No. 44 west of Walnut Grove Road.
+1
Yes, parking is available at various access points. The lot at Wolf River and Farmington Boulevards is a common starting point. Street parking is also available west of Walnut Grove Road.
Information on public transport access is limited, but given its extensive nature, it's best to check local Memphis transit routes for stops near your desired access point. Driving is the most common method of access. :bus:
Yes, there are multiple trailheads and access points. The Arboretum section has a dedicated loop,
Many cyclists use the access points near Shelby Farms Park +2 and the main paved sections for longer rides. The connection to the Shelby Farms Greenline is also popular.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Wolf River Greenway is a public park and is free to enter. Enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities without any admission fees. :ticket:
The greenway is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific sections might have different hours or be temporarily closed due to flooding or maintenance. Always check local advisories. :clock3:
While generally accessible, sections of the greenway can be closed due to flooding after heavy rainfall.
There are no entrance fees or charges for using the Wolf River Greenway for walking, running, or cycling. :moneywithwings:
No reservations are needed as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during operating hours. :calendar:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, running, cycling, bird watching, wildlife spotting, and nature photography. The Arboretum offers a unique educational experience. +5
The paved sections, like the Arboretum loop,
Restroom availability can vary by access point. It's advisable to check specific park facilities or plan accordingly. :toilet:
While some access points lead to riverbanks or sandbars,
Visitors often report seeing deer, sandhill cranes, various bird species, and even bobcats, especially in quieter sections and early mornings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arboretum offers beautiful tree-lined paths.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Wolf River Conservancy or local authorities regarding drone operation policies to ensure compliance. :drone:
Early mornings offer soft light and are ideal for wildlife photography.
The bridge connecting to Shelby Farms Park
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Respect their habitat and observe responsibly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
are perfect for strollers and young walkers, providing a safe and accessible environment. Pack a picnic and enjoy the natural scenery, keeping an eye out for local wildlife like deer and birds, which are always a hit with kids. Consider visiting the connection to Shelby Farms Park for expanded play areas and more open spaces.
While some natural trails might be too rugged for very young children, the main paved paths offer plenty of room for kids to explore and burn energy. Remember to check for any temporary closures due to flooding before your visit. :family_mm:🏃♀️ Runners and Cyclists
Be mindful of potential flooding, especially after heavy rain, as some natural trails can become impassable.
+1 Checking trail conditions beforehand is crucial for a seamless experience. The greenway's natural beauty, with shaded areas and river views, makes for an enjoyable and scenic workout. 🌳 Nature Enthusiasts
The diverse habitats along the riverbanks offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, with sightings of deer and cranes being common. Keep an eye out for the more elusive bobcats, a testament to the greenway's role as a vital wildlife corridor.
The natural surface trails provide a more intimate connection with the environment, though it's wise to be prepared for varying conditions and potential flooding. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Wolf River Greenway
Beyond the paved paths, the greenway also features natural surface trails that wind through wooded areas and along the riverbanks. These trails offer a more immersive nature experience but can be more challenging and are prone to flooding after heavy rains.
+1 It's crucial to be aware of the weather conditions and trail status before venturing onto these sections. The connection to Shelby Farms Park via a bridge is a significant feature, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition to an even larger recreational area, including the Shelby Farms Greenline and Lucius Burch State Natural Area. When planning your visit, consider the Wolf River Greenway map or Wolf River Greenway trail map to understand the different sections and access points. Popular starting points include the parking lot at Wolf River and Farmington Boulevards
The greenway is a vital corridor for both recreation and wildlife, making it a cherished natural asset for the Memphis community. Wildlife and Nature on the Greenway
One of the more exciting, though elusive, residents of the greenway is the Eastern Bobcat. These secretive felines favor the type of habitat the greenway provides, acting as a wildlife corridor through the urban landscape. Spotting one is a rare treat, often captured by trail cameras.
The Wolf River Greenway Arboretum is a specific highlight for nature enthusiasts. This mile-long paved loop showcases 37 species of native trees to the Mid-South region, offering an educational and visually appealing experience for walkers and nature lovers.
It’s a testament to the conservancy's efforts to preserve and highlight the region's natural biodiversity.Understanding Greenway Flooding
+1Areas like Germantown, particularly near Kirby, have experienced high water levels, leading to temporary trail closures.
The Wolf River at Shelby Farms can also be affected, with sandbars becoming submerged. It's essential to check local news, weather advisories, or the Wolf River Conservancy's official channels for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions before you set out. While flooding can be a temporary inconvenience, it also highlights the dynamic nature of the river ecosystem. The greenway's resilience and the ongoing efforts to manage and monitor these conditions ensure its continued value as a recreational and natural space for the community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit